Rejection of Mercosur is a major strategic mistake for Ireland

Rejection of Mercosur is a major strategic mistake for Ireland

The Government’s decision to vote against the EU-Mercosur trade agreement is the wrong decision for Ireland, says Fine Gael Councillor Eoin O’Driscoll.

“It is very disappointing that the Irish government has decided to vote against the Mercosur trade agreement.

“The Irish economy is one of the world’s most open and export-oriented.  High-value exports are the main driver of Irish economic growth and prosperity. One in three Irish jobs is supported by Irish and EU global exports. Therefore, we are particularly reliant on an open, rule-based global trading regime.

“The global shift away from free trade is a real concern for Ireland. Ireland should be a leading voice for free trade and expanded trade agreements within the European Union. Ensuring our continued access to global markets is essential to maintain our prosperity.

“While it was important that our government and TDs fought hard to secure significant concessions as good a deal as possible for specific Irish sectoral interests – including Irish beef farmers – we should be wholeheartedly supporting the overall agreement.

“Ireland needs to take a more strategic view of its stance on trade. In the current geopolitical climate, we cannot afford to take populist decisions against free trade agreements that are integral to supporting our export-reliant economy.

“Fine Gael in government should be stepping up to extol the benefits of free trade to our economy and pushing other Member States to bring agreed trade agreements into effect as soon as possible. We need to put the long-term national good above narrow sectoral interests”.

ENDS

Sources

The Sectoral Impacts of Tariffs and Trade Fragmentation in the Irish Economy | Central Bank of Ireland

Key players in Ireland’s pharmaceutical manufacturing space | IDA Ireland

Factsheet: EU-Mercosur Partnership Agreement: Ireland – Trade and Economic Security